Notarized Translation in Japan

A notarized translation is a translation accompanied by a signed declaration (known as a Statement of Certification) from the translator or translation company, which is then formally authenticated by a licensed notary public. The purpose of notarization is to turn a private document into an officially recognized public record.

The Statement of Certification, which confirms the accuracy and completeness of a translation, is considered a private document. When a notary verifies the identity of the translator or company representative and confirms their signature, that document becomes a public record with enhanced legal credibility.

It is important to note that genuine public documents, such as koseki (Japanese family registers) issued by local government offices, do not require notarization because they are already public records by law.

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Notarized translations are often required when submitting foreign-language documents to government offices, embassies, courts, or universities that require proof of translator identity and official verification.

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Private documents requiring notarized translation may include:

• Translation Company issued Statement of Certification
• Academic diplomas and transcripts
• Financial and banking records
• Company registration or incorporation papers

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No. Notarization only verifies the translator’s identity and signature. Legalization or apostille certification is a separate process that validates the notary’s seal for international use.

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Not necessarily. Notarization is only required if specifically requested by the receiving authority, such as an embassy, court, or foreign government agency.

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Only an officially appointed notary public (kōshō-nin) can notarize a translation in Japan. The translator or an authorized representative of the translation company must appear before the notary to sign the declaration of accuracy.

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No. The notary public does not verify the translation content. Their role is to confirm the translator’s identity and witness their signed declaration of accuracy.

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A certified translation includes a signed statement by the translator or company confirming accuracy. A notarized translation goes one step further—the translator’s certification is signed in front of a notary public, who affixes an official seal to verify authenticity.

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The timeframe depends on the document type and notary’s schedule. Generally, certified translations can be completed within a few days, with notarization requiring an additional one to two weeks.

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Simply contact SAECULII TRANSLATION JAPAN with a clear copy of your document and the name of the country or authority where it will be submitted. Our team will prepare the certified translation and arrange notarization or apostille services as required to ensure acceptance abroad.

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